Sep 28, 2010

Singapore: Fort Canning Park

Fort
Canning Park is a small hill slightly more than 60 MASL, just a stone's throw
away from one of the busiest shopping areas in Singapore. Relax by taking a
stroll through the park situated on the hill or immerse yourself in this
tranquil green oasis while commuting from Orchard Road to the Civic District or
the Singapore River.

Fort Canning Park was once known as
"Forbidden Hill". This is because Malays in the 19th century believed
that it was the seat of royalty for rulers of Temasek (or "Sea Town",
an old name for Singapore) in the 1300s. Later, Singapore's colonial leaders
made their residences there, and the hill became a military base during the
Second World War. Today, ancient relics dating back to the 14th century have
been unearthed.